This study seeks to explore the relationships among competitive viability, accountability and record keeping in private sector entities. These relationships are explored both theoretically and empirically using a case study of Jamaican commercial bank failures. The study builds upon earlier research on the relationship between record keeping and public sector reform initiatives in Africa, which found that poor record keeping has undermined the success of these initiatives. The study aims to show how poor record keeping similarly can undermine the competitive viability of private sector entities and thereby economic development initiatives dependent on the private sector. The study employs a Grounded Theory-based methodology using data on Jamaican commercial bank failures to develop a theoretical argument for linkages among competitive viability, accountability and record keeping. The study argues that effective records accountabilities and controls are critical to the operation of accountability systems that provide the basis for internal control and sound decision-making in private sector entities. When accountability systems are weakened because of ineffective record keeping, management is unable to access information needed to maintain operational control and make sound decisions. This leaves the business weakened and vulnerable to collapse. The study illustrates this dynamic with reference to the failure of several Jamaican commercial banks, showing how an absence of effective records controls undermined the quality and availability of accounting and management information in these banks which, in turn, weakened the systems of accountability that the banks' directors, managers and supervisors relied upon to manage and control the banks balance sheets and business risks. The study concludes by drawing out general managementle ssonsf rom the experienceo f the failed banks and offering policies and strategies to strengthen records accountabilities and controls.